Common Questions About Laser Hair Removal

10 Common Questions About Laser Hair Removal at City Laser & Skin Clinic in Leicester

Laser hair removal has become one of the most popular aesthetic treatments for both men and women looking to reduce unwanted hair and enjoy smoother skin. Despite its popularity, many people still have questions about how it works, what results they can expect, and whether it's right for them.

At City Laser Clinic in Leicester, we're often asked the same questions by clients considering treatment. Here, we answer 10 of the most common queries about laser hair removal.

1. How Does Laser Hair Removal Work?

Laser hair removal uses concentrated light energy to target the pigment (melanin) within the hair follicle. The laser heats and damages the follicle, reducing its ability to produce new hair.

Because the treatment targets hair in its active growth phase, multiple sessions are needed to achieve the best results.

2. Is Laser Hair Removal Permanent?

Laser hair removal offers long-term hair reduction rather than permanent hair removal. Most clients experience a significant reduction in hair growth after completing their treatment course, with any regrowth often appearing finer, lighter and less noticeable.

Many people choose occasional maintenance treatments to maintain their results.

3. Does Laser Hair Removal Hurt?

Most clients find laser hair removal very tolerable. The sensation is often described as a quick flick of an elastic band against the skin.

Modern laser systems feature advanced cooling technology to keep the skin comfortable during treatment, making the experience much easier than many people expect.

4. How Many Sessions Will I Need?

The number of sessions varies depending on factors such as your hair colour, skin type, treatment area and hormonal influences.

Typically, a course of 6-8 treatments is recommended, spaced several weeks apart. During your consultation, your practitioner will create a personalised treatment plan based on your individual needs.

5. Which Areas Can Be Treated?

Laser hair removal can be used on almost any area of the body, including:

Face and upper lip
Chin and jawline
Underarms
Arms
Chest
Back
Bikini area
Legs

Both men and women can benefit from treatment on large or small areas.

6. Do I Need To Shave Before My Appointment?

Yes. Clients are usually advised to shave the treatment area 24 hours before their appointment.

Shaving allows the laser energy to target the hair follicle beneath the skin while avoiding excess heat being absorbed by hair above the skin's surface. Waxing, plucking and threading should be avoided before treatment, as these methods remove the hair root that the laser needs to target.

7. Is Laser Hair Removal Suitable For Everyone?

Advances in laser technology mean that laser hair removal is now suitable for a wider range of skin tones than ever before.

However, the treatment works best when there is a contrast between the skin colour and hair colour. During your consultation, we'll assess your skin and hair type to determine whether laser hair removal is the right option for you.

8. Are There Any Side Effects?

Most side effects are mild and temporary. Following treatment, it's common to experience slight redness or warmth in the treated area, similar to mild sun exposure.

These effects usually settle within a few hours. Following the aftercare advice provided by your practitioner will help support the healing process and ensure the best possible results.

9. Can I Have Laser Hair Removal In Summer?

Yes, but sun protection is essential. Tanned skin can increase the risk of side effects and may affect treatment effectiveness.

If you're planning a holiday or spending more time outdoors, let your practitioner know so they can advise on the best timing for your appointments. Wearing a high-factor sunscreen and avoiding excessive sun exposure is always recommended.

10. Why Is A Consultation And Patch Test Necessary?

A consultation and patch test are important parts of the laser hair removal process.

They allow your laser practitioner to:

Assess your skin and hair type
Review your medical history
Discuss your treatment goals
Ensure the laser settings are appropriate for your skin
Confirm that your skin responds well to treatment
This helps maximise safety, comfort and treatment effectiveness.

Laser hair removal offers a convenient and effective way to reduce unwanted hair and spend less time shaving, waxing and plucking.

At City Laser Clinic in Leicester, our experienced team uses advanced laser technology to deliver safe, personalised treatments tailored to your skin and hair type. Whether you're interested in treating a small facial area or larger body areas, we're here to help you achieve smoother, more confident skin.

Book a consultation with our friendly team today and discover whether laser hair removal is right for you.

This allows us to give you a precise and transparent quote, so you know exactly what to expect with no surprises. Book a consultation online or call us on 0116 242 5299. Your consultation is free. The laser patch test costs £20 which is redeemable against your first session.

How many laser hair removal sessions will I need?

Typically, most clients require 6-8 sessions which are spaced 4-6 weeks apart. But this can vary from person to person so please book a consultation so we can assess your suitability and give you a laser patch test. Your consultation is free. The laser patch test costs £20 which is redeemable against your first session.

Does laser hair removal hurt?

Most clients describe it as a mild snapping sensation. Some areas of the body are more sensitive than others as well but we do everything we can to keep any discomfort to a minimum.

Is laser hair removal permanent?

Most people see up to 90% decrease in hair density so we prefer to call this long-term hair reduction. Hair that does return is usually lighter, finer, and less noticeable - but you can always book a maintenance laser treatment to try and eliminate these finer hairs.

Does laser hair removal work on dark skin?

Yes - we can offer effective laser hair removal for all skin types. City Laser & Skin Clinic in Leicester uses the Candela Gentle Max Pro laser system to deliver safe, effective, and long-lasting hair reduction for all skin types. This state-of-the-art technology combines two laser wavelengths to ensure optimal results:

Alexandrite Laser (755nm) – The fastest and most effective laser for lighter skin tones, ideal for treating larger areas quickly. Its high repetition rate and advanced cooling system ensure a comfortable experience while effectively targeting hair follicles.

Nd:YAG Laser (1064nm) – Designed for darker skin tones, this laser penetrates deeper into the skin to safely and effectively remove hair without damaging surrounding tissue. It’s also highly effective in treating pigmentation, thread veins, and skin rejuvenation concerns.

Is there any downtime after laser treatments?

No, you can return to normal activities immediately. Some people may experience some sensivity for a few hours afterwards. Check out our 'Laser Hair Removal At A Glance Facts' here.

Can I shave between laser hair removal sessions?

Yes, shaving is recommended but please avoid waxing or plucking.

Is laser hair removal safe?

We use the Candela GentleMax Pro laser hair removal system which is a medical-grade, FDA-approved laser system for hair removal and skin treatments. It is widely considered as safe and highly effective.

What areas can be treated?

We can removal hair from virtually all areas of the body. Popular areas for laser hair removal include the face, legs, arms, underarms, bikini, back, stomach and intimate body areas.

How quickly will I see hair reduction?

Most people notice a 10-25% reduction in hair growth after the first couple of sessions. A full, lasting outcome usually requires a series of 6 to 8 sessions spaced 4-6 weeks apart, particularly for areas where you have denser hair.

Do you offer laser hair removal for transgender clients?

Yes, we love welcoming transgender clients into our Leicester clinic and can recommend our laser hair removal as a safe and effective way to treat unwanted hair. Please book a consultation so we can chat about your needs and come up with a plan to help.

Key Takeaways